Merrick B. Garland, Attorney General | https://www.justice.gov/
Merrick B. Garland, Attorney General | https://www.justice.gov/
A man from East Conemaugh, Pennsylvania, has admitted guilt in a federal court to charges involving narcotics and firearms violations. This announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
Kari Ameen Wheeler, aged 38, entered a guilty plea to Counts One and Two of the indictment before United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines.
During the proceedings related to his guilty plea, it was revealed that on or about August 21, 2024, within the Western District of Pennsylvania, Wheeler distributed and possessed with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine. Additionally, on August 23, 2024, he was found in possession of two firearms and ammunition despite having a prior felony conviction. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Judge Haines has scheduled Wheeler's sentencing for June 30, 2025. The applicable law stipulates a sentence ranging from a minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment and a fine that could reach $10 million or both. The actual sentence will be determined based on the severity of the offenses and Wheeler's previous criminal record as outlined in the federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. is representing the government in this case.
The investigation leading to Wheeler's prosecution was carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), FBI Safe Streets Task Force, and Cambria County Drug Task Force.
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